I have three of them - a XT2, a XT2 I defretted, and a XZ2. All are very nicely made and play well. The hardware is high quality - not as good as a USA Steinberger, but still very nice. I highly recommend them!

I have a fretless 5 Spirit, and I love it. I couldn't deal with the balance issue, so I installed a metal extension and attach my strap to that. Now it balances fine and it is much easier to reach 1st position.

Magman, my Spirit definitely has a chunky neck. The string spacing is pretty tight, but the neck is thick back-to-front. I usually like thinner necks, but for some reason, I really like this one. The gloss paint is a little sticky, too.

Originally posted by Monkey Magman, my Spirit definitely has a chunky neck. The string spacing is pretty tight, but the neck is thick back-to-front. I usually like thinner necks, but for some reason, I really like this one. The gloss paint is a little sticky, too.

the reach thing could get to be an issue with your back, so i would like to make a quick recomandation... try to hunt down one of those goofy X straps... i don't know the brand that makes these, but they go over both shoulders... damn, i'm probably doing a terrible job describing these things. if you've ever seen an accordian player up close (plug your nose) look at the strap they use, it's kinda like that. it will help with the wierd balance on these basses, and probably help spread the minimal weight of the bass across your entire back.

I purchased one just to take on the plane on business trips about two years ago. I was pleasantly suprised by the sound.

Unfortunately, the balance was way off, so much that it caused me to sell the bass. When using a strap, it wanted to lean forward such that the E string side was tilted outward more than the G string side. I had the rectangular-shaped model, don't know if the full-bodied musicyo versions suffer from this problem, but I'd doubt it.

The one I played didn't have a strap on it, so I played sitting down. I didn't consider the balance. I guess if it tilts forward, I could just reposition the strap peg more toward the E string (or B on the 5).

I'm leaning towards getting the white 5 string. It's only $20 more than the 4 string from MusicYo and I've been wanting that low B for a while. Might as well go for it!

Playing gigs will be even more fun now that I won't have to worry about some stage diver knocking the tuning pegs in the middle of a song! Plus the size will make it easier to play on those coffee table sized stages!! (I'm sure most of you are familiar with that!!)

I agree with the others in that it hangs off a strap funny. The first fret is also a little farther than I am used to. Anyway, I use it as a backup because it's real easy to carry. Rather can carry some full size backup bass that will more than likely stay in the bag for the gig, I bring the Steinberger. The gig bag for the Steinberger looks like a rifle case you you might get some funny looks. Out here in the DC area, I had many funny looks when I was out with it while the Sniper was on the loose. Has anyone in places with tight gun control like the UK had any hassles due to the appearance of the gig bag?

The Spirits are definitely not as nice as the original Steinbergers. The original ones had graphite necks, EMG electronics, etc.. But, the Spirits are definitely adequate. I like the tone, and they play well sitting down. Playing it standing up is a different issue.